Ex-NHL Star Gary Roberts Competes at Masters, Not as a Spectator
AUGUSTA, Ga. — Two well-known Garys met on the Augusta National driving range this week. Gary Player, 90, and Ex-NHL star Gary Roberts exchanged greetings after an introduction from Mike Weir.
Roberts arrives in an active role
Roberts is credentialled at the tournament as Mike Weir’s trainer. He is joined by Adrian Vilaca, a longtime strength and conditioning coach with Gary Roberts Performance.
Rather than watch, Roberts came to Augusta National not as a spectator. He worked with Weir’s group on preparations and routines.
From NHL ice to golf training
Roberts played roughly 1,200 NHL games. He won a Stanley Cup with the Calgary Flames in 1989.
He recovered from a severe neck injury that sidelined him for nearly two seasons. That comeback informed his approach to rehabilitation and performance training.
Clients and business
Roberts now runs a thriving training operation. He has about 40 professional clients, including Connor McDavid.
His new 1,300-square-foot facility sits at the Honey and Barry Memorial Arena in Vaughan. Vilaca designed the conditioning and nutrition program Weir now follows.
Working with Mike Weir
Weir, the 2003 Masters champion, reached out to Roberts in December. Brandon Tanev recommended Roberts; Tanev plays for the Mammoth in Utah, Weir’s adopted home.
Roberts and Vilaca monitor Weir’s plan on an app. Their aim is to increase his weight toward 160 pounds to help preserve distance as he ages.
Training emphasis
Roberts stresses strength through full range of motion. He says golfers must be strong and fluid at once.
Nutrition is central to his work. Roberts advocates small snacks every couple of hours to sustain energy on walking courses like Augusta National.
Masters access and impressions
Roberts had attended the Masters once before, in 2010, with family and friends. This visit provided rare inside access to the new player services building and the practice range.
He observed other trainers and gathered ideas for his programs. He also joined Weir’s annual Wednesday dinner, where guests wear a green jacket.
Local ties and other interests
Roberts is a member at two Toronto-area golf clubs. He is also a part-owner of Wooden Sticks in Uxbridge.
He has fond memories from his NHL stops in Carolina, Toronto, Florida, Pittsburgh and Tampa. He said the Masters visit felt like a “pinch-me” moment and thanked Weir for the opportunity.
- Location: Augusta National, Augusta, Ga.
- Key figures: Gary Roberts, Gary Player, Mike Weir, Adrian Vilaca, Brandon Tanev
- Roberts’ background: ~1,200 NHL games, 1989 Stanley Cup champion
- Facility: 1,300-square-foot space at Honey and Barry Memorial Arena, Vaughan
- Clients: about 40 pros, including Connor McDavid
- Weir’s title: 2003 Masters champion
